New Zealand One NZ and 2degrees Plan to Share RAN by 2027

en.Wedoany.com Reported - One New Zealand (One NZ) has announced its intention to inject its and 2degrees' respective radio access network (RAN) assets into a jointly owned new entity, which will manage and operate the shared infrastructure in a unified manner. One NZ stated that this move aims to improve the efficiency of mobile network resource deployment, accelerate the introduction of new technologies, and enhance network resilience, while allowing One NZ to focus its investments on areas of network and services that deliver the most value to its customers and support sustainable growth.

RAN refers to the active equipment at mobile sites, including antennas and electronic devices. Currently, One NZ and 2degrees already have a commercial RAN sharing arrangement covering a limited number of sites nationwide. There are other infrastructure sharing examples in New Zealand's mobile industry, including collaboration through the Rural Connectivity Group (RCG) and partnerships with mobile tower companies Fortysouth and Connexa.

Under the proposal, the two companies will each contribute their RAN assets to a jointly owned commercial entity, which will manage and operate the shared RAN infrastructure and provide network services to both parties through independent wholesale agreements. The goal is to utilize existing infrastructure more efficiently, minimize duplication of construction, and lay the foundation for future digital connectivity investment in New Zealand.

If approved, One NZ and 2degrees will remain fully independent as retail and wholesale businesses, continuing to compete in the consumer and enterprise customer segments. One NZ will retain ownership of its spectrum management rights, core network, fiber backhaul assets, and satellite technology to protect strategic assets and capabilities that enhance service differentiation, customer experience, innovation, and competitiveness.

One NZ's incoming Chief Executive Officer, Nick Judd, stated that RAN network sharing is common in other countries and helps enable more efficient investment in mobile infrastructure. He believes this proposal will deliver tangible benefits to customers by improving connectivity, accelerating access to new technologies such as 6G, and enhancing overall network resilience.

Nick Judd also noted that this arrangement provides a more efficient framework for long-term network investment, enabling capital to be allocated to areas where One NZ can create the greatest differentiation and value, such as product innovation, customer experience, core network capabilities, and new connectivity solutions. Additionally, by reducing equipment redundancy and lowering overall energy consumption over time, this move also aligns with the company's sustainability goals.

One NZ will continue to operate independently in the New Zealand market, competing with 2degrees and other companies on aspects important to consumers, such as value, products, and innovation.

The proposal remains subject to approval from the New Zealand Commerce Commission and the Overseas Investment Office, as well as the completion of certain restructuring measures. If everything proceeds as planned, the transaction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2027.